Oct. 27--The committee working to select a developer of a downtown hotel for Owensboro has narrowed the search to three finalists, all of which seek to build a high-end, convention-style hotel in the range of 150 to 175 rooms.

All of the finalists have connections to the community, according to information released Tuesday morning by Nick Brake, president of the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation. Staff from the agency, along with Downtown Development Director Fred Reeves, Daviess County Judge-Executive Reid Haire, Owensboro City Manager Bill Parrish as well as Gateway Planning consultants, including an economist with extensive experience in vetting similar deals, are members of the selection committee evaluating requsts for proposals received for the project.

Brake, who was scheduled to make a report to the Owensboro City Commission at noon Tuesday on the committee's progress, did not identify the finalists.

According to information posted on the GO-EDC Web log,owensboroedc.blogspot.com each hotel proposal comes from respected developers that have strong relationships with national hotel brands. All three proposals have significant local groups involved with the proposal or have already made significant investments in the local economy.

The average room rates that will be charged, according to the finalists, ranged from $110 to $140 per night for a standard room.

The review committee expects to have a recommendation to the City Commission in 30 to 60 days.

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